The course, taught by Professor Yongsong Huang, explores the the biogeochemical cycling, fate, and transport of chemicals in atmospheric and aquatic environments by examining natural ecosystem examples. Students will use the samples their samples from this trip in labs for the course, studying the water quality for nutrients, trace metals, and organic contamination. Students also tested water for pH and alkalinity, learned how to use a YSI multimeter, and spent time kayaking together in Barrington.

Graduate student Brianna Hoelger, who is the Teaching Assistant for EEPS 1370, shared these photos and her thoughts from the trip.“Water connects every living thing, and on this trip, our students got to experience the journey water takes through Rhode Island, from a pristine reservoir, through a river that flows through heavily populated towns, and all the way to where it empties into the estuary,” she shared. “I hope they take away both lessons about the importance of protecting such a precious resource and fun memories of exploring a bit of the state by bus and kayak!”